5 Radiator Maintenance Tips to Prolong the Life of Your Radiator

1. Check for Stray Current

This radiator maintenance tip is important, yet often overlooked. When installing a new radiator or heater if you have had any electrical work done on your vehicle (ie, spotlights, radios, CB’s, air conditioner etc) it’s necessary to ensure everything is working properly. If you have a stray current, it can cause corrosion resulting in the failure of your radiator within a short period of time. Check using a voltmeter between the coolant and ground being careful not to touch the metal core or filler neck. If a reading of .05 volts or more is detected, this indicates a damaging current is present – turn off one accessory at a time to identify where your fault is coming from.

2. Check Your Fluids

Fluids are the lifeblood of your radiator. Perhaps the most obvious of our radiator maintenance tips; check your coolant levels regularly to make sure that you have the proper amount of fluid in the radiator. The reason you need to maintain the fluid levels is that it keeps the car from overheating in hot weather and keeps the water from freezing in colder climates.

3. Flush The Radiator

Flush the radiator once every 12 months or 30,000 kms (whichever occurs first). Radiator flush will remove build-up of damaging rust and residue.

4. Maintain The Hoses

Check your car radiator hoses looking for leaks or cracks. You need to do this every time you change your oil. Maintaining the hoses will help avoid costly repairs.

5. Find The Right Coolant

Only use coolants that are suited for your vehicle. Remember that the requirements for aluminum and copper brass radiators are different and common coolant may not suit your particular radiator. NEVER mix coolants and ensure you use the correct dosage.

Our ADRAD Radiator Agents carry the most extensive range of engine cooling products in New Zealand – from components to radiators cores, to complete assemblies. Visit our products section for information on car radiators or contact us for radiator repair services and products.